WAGO: Scalable control technology

The requirements for an automation solution varies greatly with the type of machine, system or equipment that must be automated. The number of inputs and outputs and the required speed are the main parameters. Ultimately, the interfaces and fieldbus systems used also play an important role. The controllers of the WAGO-I/O-SYSTEM are modular and independent of the fieldbus. With an extensive portfolio of I/O modules, they always offer the right solution.

The processing unit of an automation solution is a central component responsible for processing the signals. The development of the automation technology always proceeded parallel with the development of the micro-processor technology in the past few decades, so that the user today has a multitude of options available: the spectrum ranges from the micro PLC with a 16-bit processor up to the powerful industrial PC (IPC). Even faster and more extensive automation solutions can be realized with an increasing efficiency of the controllers.

It all depends on the application

Not every application requires the fastest controller available on the market. For example, if only a relatively small machine must be automated, a small PLC, such as the modular control from the WAGO-I/O-SYSTEM 750, is the more economical solution. These compact and rugged controllers are available with 16-bit or 32-bit CPU for all common field buses. The user programs the controllers, which offer all the features of a traditional PLC with CoDeSys according to IEC 61131-3. However, links to higher IT systems are possible at the same time. A visualization runs on a web server that is directly integrated in the controller that can be accessed using a web browser.

If the demand for computing power, speed and memory is greater, the Series 758 WAGO-I/O-IPC will be used. The computing power of this IPC series currently ranges up to the 1.4 GHz Pentium processor. Linux® with real-time extensions is used at WAGO as standard operating system. A CoDeSys Soft-PLC runs on it, which also allows full PLC functionality and programming according to IEC 61131-3. An integrated web server also provides a visualization directly via ETHERNET. Alternatively, a monitor can be directly connected. Optionally, the IPCs can also work as a master in a PROFIBUS-DP or a CANopen bus.

Interfaces to sensors, actuators, and the operator

All controllers by WAGO can be connected directly to the WAGO-I/O-SYSTEM 750. The system plays out its strength, when very different signals must be detected or generated. A total of 400 different function terminal blocks are available that can be combined, depending on the requirements of the application. The connection of all sensors, actuators and communication protocols is possible with the I/O system, from analog and digital inputs and outputs via terminal modules for the drive technology and the building industry up to the support of the most diverse fieldbus protocols.

WAGO offers additional control panels in its extensive automation range, on which the conditions of a machine can be visualized and simultaneously offer the user an entry option. The flat panels of the PERSPECTO® Series, which can be easily built into a machine or system, are available at monitor sizes from 3.5“ to 15“. The connection to the WAGO-I/O-SYSTEM 750 is done via fieldbus. Peripheral devices are connected via standard interfaces.